Varicose veins are a common condition, especially in adults and the elderly. This medical condition occurs when the veins become dilated and curved and usually occurs in the legs. Varicose veins are a disease with symptoms such as pain, swelling and discomfort in the legs and can take the form of chronic sores on the ankles that do not heal. Apart from that, varicose veins can also interfere with physical appearance and quality of life. One treatment method that is increasingly popular for treating varicose veins is Minimally Invasive Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA).
What is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
EVLA is a medical procedure performed to treat varicose veins using laser energy. This procedure is minimally invasive, meaning it does not require large incisions or general anesthesia. Instead, a vascular surgeon or vascular specialist will take a minimally invasive approach by guiding a small diameter optical fiber into the damaged vein through a catheter under ultrasound guidance. These optical fibers will then send laser energy into the vein walls, causing heating and ultimately closing or causing thrombosis of the varicose veins. The EVLA method itself has several benefits and advantages in treatment, namely:
- Recovery is faster because patients can usually return to normal activities within a short time after the procedure.
- EVLA does not require open surgery or major surgery so the risk of infection and scarring is lower.
- This treatment method is effective in closing or eliminating varicose veins and helps relieve symptoms such as pain, swelling and chronic wounds.
- This procedure also has a high success rate in treating varicose veins and minimal recurrence.
How are the stages of EVLA treatment carried out?
- Evaluation: The doctor will carry out an evaluation first using ultrasound to evaluate the patient's damaged veins.
- Patient preparation: Patients will usually be given spinal anesthesia and mapping with images and ultrasound assistance to reduce pain during the treatment process.
- Laser delivery: An optical fiber equipped with a laser will be inserted into the damaged vein through a catheter.
- Vein closure: Laser energy will be activated, and the vein will close or disappear due to the heat / thermal generated by the laser, selectively without damaging the structure of nerves, blood vessels and other healthy tissue.
- Monitoring: During the procedure, the doctor will continue to monitor the movement of the optic fiber with the help of ultrasound. If it is accompanied by a significant curved lump, a microphlebectomy can be completed on the vein.
- Recovery: Once the laser procedure is complete, the patient will be given post-procedure care instructions and compression stockings. Can go home within one day after the laser procedure is carried out.
Can every varicose vein be treated with the Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Procedure?
Varicose veins themselves can be divided into three main categories: fine varicose veins (capillary), mesh varicose veins (reticular), and truncal varicose veins (large). Appropriate treatment options may vary based on the classification of varicose veins, the location on the body, and the patient's health condition. Therefore, before determining the most appropriate treatment approach, doctors usually conduct a thorough evaluation that includes an anamnesis with the patient to understand their complaints regarding varicose veins. In the next stage, the doctor will use tools such as Doppler ultrasound to identify varicose veins in more detail and assess the severity and location affected. After this analysis is complete, the doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to the patient's condition.
For cases of varicose veins that are relatively mild and do not cause severe symptoms, but may be bothersome in appearance, doctors will often recommend methods such as sclerotherapy , which involves injecting a special solution into the veins to fill or compact them. Patients may also be advised to wear vein compression stockings as part of the treatment. Meanwhile, in more serious cases of varicose veins, which can cause significant pain, open sores, or even interfere with daily activities, your doctor may consider the EVLA Procedure. This process involves the use of an endovenous laser directed into the affected vein through a catheter. This laser produces enough heat to close off the problematic vein, allowing for significant improvement. It is important to remember that each case of varicose veins is unique, and the treatment approach must be tailored to the patient's individual needs. Additionally, if the patient has other health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or other risk factors, the doctor can adjust the treatment strategy to take these factors into account.
With effective and minimally invasive methods for treating varicose veins such as EVLA, patient success rates will increase even higher with rapid recovery. Therefore, if you experience complaints of varicose veins, EVLA is an attractive choice to provide maximum treatment. However, before undergoing this procedure, consult first with a vascular specialist at EMC Hospital. with our best doctors, you will get integrated health services and the latest treatment to cure you of your varicose veins.
Article written by dr. Anne Saputra, M.Biomed, Sp.B, Subsp.BVE (K) (Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Specialist, EMC Pulomas Hospital).